Name: Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed

There are few dishes more satisfying than a steaming bowl of black beans and rice, especially when smoky sausage is involved. This recipe is the kind of hearty, down-to-earth comfort food that comes together easily but delivers big flavor and filling warmth. Whether it’s a chilly night or you need something substantial after a long day, this meal is as comforting as it is nutritious.

Each bite brings together tender black beans, aromatic spices, juicy sausage, and fluffy rice into a rich and savory combination that feels like home. It’s budget-friendly, feeds a crowd, and reheats like a dream. Plus, it’s easily adjustable depending on what’s in your pantry or how much heat you can handle.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage

This dish hits that rare sweet spot of being simple to prepare while also bursting with deep, layered flavor. It comes together in a single pot, so cleanup is a breeze, and the ingredients are easy to find or already waiting in your kitchen. The blend of smoky sausage, earthy black beans, and flavorful rice makes it satisfying enough to stand alone, yet versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides.

The sausage brings a deliciously savory richness, while the beans and rice add body and warmth. It’s a great option for meal prepping, weeknight dinners, or even laid-back entertaining when you need something both easy and delicious.

What Kind of Sausage Works Best?

Smoked sausage is the go-to here, especially something like andouille, kielbasa, or chorizo if you’re craving a bit of spice. You want something fully cooked so that it browns beautifully and infuses the pot with all its flavorful juices. If you prefer something lighter, chicken sausage also works well, but make sure it has bold seasoning to hold up to the dish. Even plant-based sausages can shine if you choose one with a good smoky profile.

Ingredients for the Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage

The soul of this dish lies in its simple, everyday ingredients that transform into something much more than the sum of their parts. Here’s what you’ll need:

Smoked sausage – The backbone of the flavor. Its smoky, seasoned taste elevates the whole pot.

Black beans – Canned beans keep this easy and fast. They’re creamy, hearty, and full of fiber.

Long-grain rice – Absorbs the flavors beautifully while keeping its structure. Jasmine or basmati are excellent too.

Onion – Builds the aromatic base for the dish.

Garlic – Adds depth and richness when sautéed with the sausage and onions.

Bell pepper – Sweet and colorful, it balances the savory elements.

Chicken broth – Helps cook the rice and adds savory flavor throughout.

Tomato paste – Concentrated richness that rounds out the base.

Olive oil – Used for sautéing and to enhance the overall richness.

Seasonings – Cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper bring warmth and earthy spice.

How To Make the Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until it’s browned and edges are crisp. Toss in chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened. Stir in garlic and tomato paste and let it cook for a minute or two.

Step 2: Add Rice and Spices

Add the rice directly to the pot and stir so it’s coated in all the flavorful oil and tomato paste. Then sprinkle in your cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to toast the rice slightly and bring out its nutty aroma.

Step 3: Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too much during this part.

Step 4: Stir in the Beans

Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the drained and rinsed black beans. Let everything warm through for 5 minutes. If the mixture feels dry, add a splash more broth or water.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Fluff everything with a fork and taste to adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce if desired.

How to Serve and Store Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage

This dish makes a cozy main for up to 6 people, served as is or with a few toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or avocado slices. You can also spoon it into burritos or tacos, or serve it over greens for a satisfying rice bowl.

Leftovers store beautifully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, and it reheats well in a skillet with a splash of broth. It’s also freezer-friendly—just portion it into airtight containers and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage?

Crusty Garlic Bread

Perfect for scooping and soaking up every bit of flavor.

Classic Caprese Salad

The fresh mozzarella and tomatoes balance the richness of the sausage and rice [link to https://janetdishes.com/classic-caprese-salad-recipe/].

Roasted Zucchini and Squash

Adds a light and roasted veggie contrast to this hearty main [link to https://janetdishes.com/roasted-zucchini-and-squash-recipe/].

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

If you’re feeding a crowd, pair this rice dish with a lighter pasta side [link to https://janetdishes.com/creamy-tomato-spinach-pasta/].

Butter Pecan Pound Cake

For dessert, this rich cake is a perfect southern-style finish [link to https://janetdishes.com/butter-pecan-pound-cake/].

Want More Rice-Based Comfort Food Ideas?

If this dish warms your soul, try these other favorites that center around rice:

Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon over rice for a citrusy twist.
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice for buttery indulgence.
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole that’s pure savory comfort.
Tasty Deconstructed Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Rolls for something cozy and hearty.
No Peek Chicken Casserole for a hands-off classic.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it whenever the craving hits.

Did you try it with andouille or go mild with kielbasa? Maybe you tossed in jalapeños for extra heat? Let me know how you made it your own in the comments!

Explore beautifully curated hearty and healthy recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next go-to dinner favorite.

Conclusion

Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage is a weeknight staple that never fails to satisfy. It’s warm, comforting, endlessly flexible, and built on pantry basics. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, it’s the kind of dish that brings comfort in every bite.